Veterinary Services
Pet Dentistry
Unlock your pet’s brightest smile with expert pet dentistry services at Westwood Animal Hospital. Safe, comprehensive care for healthy teeth and gums.
Pet Dentistry: Ensuring Your Pet’s Dental Health at Westwood Animal Hospital in Tallahassee, FL
At Westwood Animal Hospital, we deeply understand the vital role that dental health plays in your pet’s overall well-being. Our pet dentistry services go beyond mere cleaning – they’re designed to provide comprehensive care for your furry friend’s teeth and gums, ensuring they enjoy a lifetime of dental health and happiness. Trust our experienced team to deliver personalized care and attention to your beloved companion because every smile matters to us.
Dental Cleaning: A Vital Service for Pet Health
Most of our canine and feline patients over the age of one year develop dental calculus and tartar buildup. During annual examinations, our experienced veterinarians assess your pet’s teeth and recommend dental cleaning when necessary.
All patients will have pre-anesthetic bloodwork evaluated prior to dental cleaning. In order to properly clean your pet’s teeth, a general anesthetic must first be administered and the animal must be intubated to protect the airways. The anesthesia is maintained using gas anesthesia (Isoflurane) and the patient is monitored (heart rate and oxygenation) using pulse oximetry during the entire procedure. Pain medication and antibiotics will be administered during and after the anesthesia and dental cleaning as necessary.
Key Benefits of Our Dental Cleaning Service
Pre-anesthetic Bloodwork
Prior to the procedure, all patients undergo pre-anesthetic bloodwork to ensure they are healthy enough for dental cleaning.
Safe Anesthesia
We administer a general anesthetic to ensure your pet remains comfortable and safe throughout the cleaning process. Intubation is performed to protect the airways, and gas anesthesia (Isoflurane) is used for maintenance.
Continuous Monitoring
Your pet’s vital signs, including heart rate and oxygenation, are monitored closely using pulse oximetry throughout the procedure.
Pain Management
Pain medication and antibiotics are administered during and after the cleaning as needed to ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being.
When to Seek Pet Dental Care
It’s essential to recognize signs that indicate your pet may need dental care. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental examination for your pet. Regular dental cleanings can prevent dental disease and promote better oral health for your furry companion. Look out for symptoms such as:
- =Persistent bad breath
- =Discolored or loose teeth
- =Difficulty chewing or eating
- =Excessive drooling
- =Bleeding gums or mouth odor
The Hidden Risks of Dental Neglect: Understanding the Consequences
Neglecting pet dental care can have serious consequences, impacting your furry friend’s health and well-being in various ways:
Periodontal Disease
Without regular dental care, pets are at risk of developing periodontal disease, a painful condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues.
Tooth Decay
Just like humans, pets can experience tooth decay if dental hygiene is neglected. Decay can lead to painful cavities, abscesses, and ultimately tooth loss, affecting your pet’s ability to eat and causing discomfort.
Oral Infections
Dental neglect creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to oral infections. These infections can spread to other parts of the body, causing systemic health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, and respiratory issues.
Pain and Discomfort
Dental problems can cause significant pain and discomfort for your pet, impacting their quality of life. Pets suffering from dental pain may exhibit changes in behavior, such as reluctance to eat, lethargy, and irritability.
Malnutrition and Weight Loss
Pets with dental issues may struggle to eat properly due to pain or difficulty chewing. This can lead to malnutrition and weight loss over time, further exacerbating their health problems.
Behavioral Changes
Dental pain can affect your pet’s behavior, causing them to become irritable, withdrawn, or aggressive. Changes in behavior can strain the bond between you and your pet and impact their overall happiness and well-being.
Overall, neglecting pet dental care can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only your pet’s oral health but also their overall physical and emotional well-being. Regular dental check-ups and preventive care are essential for ensuring your pet leads a healthy and happy life.